French media outlet L`Équipe has reported that Rennes and Olympique Marseille have successfully finalized a transfer agreement for midfielder Valentin Rongier (30) and left-back Quentin Merlin (23). Intensive discussions between the two Ligue 1 clubs extended late into the night, culminating in a definitive agreement reached this morning.
Rennes, also known as Les Rouges et Noirs, is set to acquire the services of both players from Olympique Marseille for a fee approximately in the region of €20 million. Marseille’s willingness to facilitate the departure of both Merlin and Rongier aligns with their strategic objective to recruit new players and reinforce Roberto De Zerbi`s roster ahead of the upcoming season.
The 30-year-old midfielder, Rongier, had previously turned down a contract extension offer from Les Phocéens back in February, making his potential exit from Stade Vélodrome widely anticipated. In contrast, Merlin was a consistent and valuable player for Marseille last term, having made 27 appearances in Ligue 1, contributing 1 goal and 3 assists. Both talented players are now poised to begin a new chapter in their careers with Rennes.
